by Olivia Goldstein
After the recent collapse of the famous Benzini Brothers circus reports have surfaced of suspected “redlighting.” This term refers to the removal of circus workers or roustabouts against their will.
On July 22 the Disaster March could be heard in the big top of the Benzini Brothers circus as animals and people ran in all directions. Authorities became involved on the scene when they were informed of possible redlighting allegations.
“Five men were tossed off. Two unfortunately died but the others caught up with the train,” Benizini Brothers roustabout, Grady, said.
The circus had reportedly been losing money prior to the fateful accident. The late ring master “Uncle Al” was secretly having workers removed from the job. According to a witness, men were being thrown off the circus train in the middle of the night, no matter if it resulted in death.
This seems to be a common practice among many circuses, though the degree of brutality varies. Many men have reported being left behind at stops and not being paid. It’s certainly one way to issue a budget cut.
The most recent account of redlighting has left a muddy mark on the circuses reputation. The veterinarian for the show Jacob Jankowski reported that two men and close friends had been thrown off the night prior to the accident. Though no bodies have been found, others tossed that night reported the two men had died on the scene. The deceased include, circus clown Walter and roustabout “Camel.”
“This should not have happened, to anyone. These crimes were personal and malicious,” Jankowski said.
Local sheriffs are looking into possible charges and who to place responsibility on. Possible suspects have been placed into custody.
A representative of the circus has denied any such actions but it is still under investigation.
On July 22 the Disaster March could be heard in the big top of the Benzini Brothers circus as animals and people ran in all directions. Authorities became involved on the scene when they were informed of possible redlighting allegations.
“Five men were tossed off. Two unfortunately died but the others caught up with the train,” Benizini Brothers roustabout, Grady, said.
The circus had reportedly been losing money prior to the fateful accident. The late ring master “Uncle Al” was secretly having workers removed from the job. According to a witness, men were being thrown off the circus train in the middle of the night, no matter if it resulted in death.
This seems to be a common practice among many circuses, though the degree of brutality varies. Many men have reported being left behind at stops and not being paid. It’s certainly one way to issue a budget cut.
The most recent account of redlighting has left a muddy mark on the circuses reputation. The veterinarian for the show Jacob Jankowski reported that two men and close friends had been thrown off the night prior to the accident. Though no bodies have been found, others tossed that night reported the two men had died on the scene. The deceased include, circus clown Walter and roustabout “Camel.”
“This should not have happened, to anyone. These crimes were personal and malicious,” Jankowski said.
Local sheriffs are looking into possible charges and who to place responsibility on. Possible suspects have been placed into custody.
A representative of the circus has denied any such actions but it is still under investigation.